Finding the Right Construction Delay Analysis Expert
Construction schedule delay analysis is a specialized forensic discipline where qualified consultants examine project CPM schedules, contemporaneous records, and contract documents to determine the causes, responsibility, and magnitude of project delays. These experts are indispensable in construction litigation and arbitration proceedings.
Recognized Delay Analysis Methodologies
The AACE International Recommended Practice 29R-03 defines six accepted forensic schedule analysis methodologies, each suited to different dispute scenarios:
| Method | Approach | Best Used When |
|---|---|---|
| As-Planned vs As-Built | Compares baseline schedule against actual completion | Limited schedule updates available |
| Collapsed As-Built | Removes alleged delays from the as-built schedule | Defendant perspective; well-documented projects |
| Time Impact Analysis (TIA) | Inserts delay events into schedule updates prospectively | Government contracts (USACE, NAVFAC, DOT) |
| Windows Analysis | Divides project into time windows for granular analysis | Complex projects with concurrent delays |
What Qualifies a Forensic Schedule Analyst
Leading practitioners typically hold one or more of these credentials:
- PSP (Planning & Scheduling Professional)
- AACE International certification focused specifically on CPM scheduling and forensic analysis — widely regarded as the gold standard.
- PMP (Project Management Professional)
- PMI certification demonstrating broad project management competence.
- CCP (Certified Cost Professional)
- AACE credential covering cost engineering, often paired with scheduling expertise for damages quantification.
Key Selection Criteria
When hiring a delay analysis consultant for litigation or arbitration, construction attorneys should evaluate:
- Tribunal experience — Has the expert testified before AAA, ICC, LCIA, or federal/state courts?
- Methodology alignment — Does the consultant's preferred method match the contract's scheduling specification?
- Software proficiency — Primavera P6 and Microsoft Project are essential; some disputes require legacy Oracle or SureTrak analysis.
- Sector depth — Heavy civil, commercial building, industrial/process, and transportation each have distinct scheduling norms.